ENGLAND CALL FOR DAWS

Michael Dawson has been called up as stand-by for England's World Cup squad.

Michael Dawson has been called up as stand-by for England's World Cup squad.

The 22-year-old defender was drafted in on Sunday after Charlton's Luke Young suffered a recurrence of an ankle injury.

Outstanding in our back four last season, Michael will join the squad at their Watford base on Monday as preparations for the World Cup continue with friendlies against Belarus (May 25), Hungary (May 30) and Jamaica (June 3) before flying out to Germany.

Michael is the sixth Spur in the squad with Michael Carrick, Paul Robinson, Jermaine Jenas and Aaron Lennon in the 23-man party and Jermain Defoe also on stand-by.

"It's amazing really and caps a fantastic season for both myself and the club," said Micheal.

"I watched the squad announcement the same as everyone else in the country and thought I would be watching the build-up and friendlies on television.

"To actually be in the squad and to see what happens as we build-up to a World Cup will be a great experience and I'm looking forward to it. I'll thoroughly enjoy it and we'll see what happens."